Does God Forgive All Sins?

As we navigate our lives, many obstacles can lead us to sin. Our free will can be a blessing and a curse, as our choices can have a positive or extremely negative affect on our lives and the lives of others. For those struggling with psychological impairments due to trauma, turbulent life events and substance use disorders, it can be especially difficult to grapple with the perceived ramifications of sin. Since not all sins are of equal severity, and some are committed out of our full control or awareness, you might be wondering– does God forgive all sins?

The short answer- YES

The basis of Christianity is the principle that God is unconditionally loving and compassionate, and there is no sin too great that cannot be forgiven under any circumstances. Christian teachings have long emphasized that you were created in God’s image, and God makes no mistakes in his creation. Any flaw you might believe yourself to have is not going to mean condemnation, and all sins are forgivable if you are willing to repent. This is evident in the Bible, with passages citing confession as the true path to divine forgiveness.

 

            “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to

cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

 

Severe Sins

It might be hard to grasp the idea that any sin is forgivable, especially since there are mortal sins such as murder that seem too severe to be forgiven. However, just because all sins are forgivable, does not mean they require an equal amount of redemption on your part to make up for your mistakes.

When you were a kid, did you ever steal a candy bar from a department store? Many people learn the lesson not to steal from a young age, and maybe your parents caught you and made you return it and apologize to the manager. This is a simple example of the immediate repentance of sin, but some sins are much more damaging to your soul and harmful to the lives of others. For example, if you drive under the influence and hurt or even kill someone, you have a lot more redemption and repentance needed to make up for such a mistake.

How Can You Repent for Severe Sins?

Even though severe sins require intense redemptive measures, under no circumstances is a person beyond saving due to their sins. God sees every one of his children as just that- children who are learning and in need of his holy guidance. In the DUI scenario, although this recklessness was undoubtedly sinful, one can always take steps to lessen the suffering caused to themselves and others. If your sins have done harm to yourself or others, the first step in redemption is recognizing an internal problem and seeking help for it. This way, you will not run the risk of harming more people as a result of your internal struggles.

 

There is incredible power in self-acceptance, even if it means accepting that you’re human and you need help. It’s God’s will for you to learn and grow through positive connection to others. No matter what place in life you’re in, there are people in the world who want to help you.

 

“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21)

 

Overcome Your Struggles Through Christ

You can learn more about seeking redemption through Christian rehabilitation and how it offers a unique benefit for people struggling with substance use disorder here. Your healing starts with Christ, and as the Bible says:

 

“He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.” (1 Peter 2:21)

 

If you’re struggling with substance use and ready to receive the healing grace of God through effective rehabilitation, contact us to start your journey of redemption.